133rd Patriots' Day Celebration at Bengaluru
- 17th August 2024 : Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore (MMAB) -

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133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru

133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru on 17th Aug 2024

The Manipuri Meitei Association, Bangalore (MMAB), commemorated the 133rd Manipur Patriots’ Day with deep pride, honoring the martyrs of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891—a critical event in India's history often regarded as the second war of Independence.

This day is not just about remembrance but also a tribute to their courage and determination. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's naming of the third highest peak in the Andamans as Mount Manipur acknowledges the war's significance.

Amid ongoing violence in Manipur, which has devastated lives and homes for over a year, MMAB has launched the "Fields of Hope" initiative—a football-friendly event promoting peace and normalcy. Through sports, MMAB aims to bridge divides, heal wounds, and unite communities. This event marks the start of many initiatives aimed at restoring peace and offering children affected by violence a brighter future.

133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru

MMAB strongly advocates for equality and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing unity and brotherhood through sports. Sri Sri Ravishankar, who could not attend in person, shared a video message highlighting MMAB's vital role in fostering connections and unity among communities, and promoting peace in Manipur and the Northeast.

Honorable MLA Shri R.K. Imo, President of the Manipur Cricket Association, extended his best wishes for the event, stating, "Sports transcends caste and religion, promoting peace and unity among all. I hope this event will be the first of many, offering a ray of hope to everyone."

The event began with a lamp-lighting ceremony, a floral tribute to the martyrs, a military band performance, and cultural displays including patriotic songs and a Manipuri dance (Meitei Jagoi) by Naga and Meitei communities. Players from diverse backgrounds, including Tripura, Nagaland, Naga community from Manipur, Meitei Pangal, and Meitei, participated.

133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru

The event was also attended by Advocate Nachappa Codava, Chairman of Codava National Counsil and member of VHS. The "Field of Hope" event was kicked off by Oja Wahegbam Rajshwor (Taekwondo Grand Master) and Oja Irom Deban (India ex-Fencing National Coach).

Shri Dr. Agomcha Bimol Akoijam, Honorable Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, graced the event as Chief Guest and remarked, “We should remember our ancestors and martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice. This is the most unifying event, especially in these trying times when many aspire to live in peace and equality. Many simply want to return to normal lives and live with dignity."

133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru

On behalf of MMAB and the founding members of "Field of Hope," Maj Rajkumar Jhaljit Singh (Retd.) emphasized that this humble initiative aims to unite communities through sports. The presence of teams from diverse backgrounds is a testament to the blessings and success of this effort.

The 11 founding members are also actively involved in training 300 football students from violence-affected areas. With continued support, this initiative can become even more impactful. Your presence here reflects the enduring spirit of Manipur and our shared commitment to a brighter future.

133rd Patriots’ Day Celebration & Launch of 'Fields of Hope' Football Event by MMAB in Bengaluru

MMAB President
Maj Rajkumar Jhaljit Singh (Retd)

MMAB General Secretary
Nongthombam John Singh